A server resume must display that your skills and experience can help the restaurant you’re applying to with its goals, whether that’s increasing guest satisfaction or decreasing table turnaround times. Think of your resume as your first chance to meet the hiring manager. You’ll convey your professionalism, highlight your industry knowledge, and show why you’d make a valuable asset to the team. Here are some tips — and examples — on how to write a tailored server resume that can help you get an interview and maybe even an offer.
Most Popular Server Resumes
Upscale Restaurant Server Resume Example
Why this upscale restaurant server resume is strong:
This resume stands out due to its clear focus on customer service and adaptability in a fast-paced, upscale environment. The candidate’s ability to facilitate the launch of a new POS system demonstrates strong problem-solving skills, while the “Employee of the Month” awards showcase exceptional performance. The inclusion of both customer service and teamwork skills strengthens the candidate’s value.
Dessert Server Resume Example
Why this dessert server resume is strong:
This resume emphasizes the candidate’s extensive experience (8+ years) and dedication to delivering quality service. The candidate’s ability to handle high-volume environments, combined with consistent recognition for efficiency and service, makes this a standout. Skills like “process streamlining” and “team collaboration” further highlight their professional acumen, while the Safe Food Handling certification adds to their credibility.
Professional Server Resume Example
Why this professional server resume is strong:
With 17+ years of experience and a focus on providing safe, courteous service to over 100,000 customers, this resume shows deep expertise. The candidate’s experience in adhering to health regulations and providing excellent customer relations stands out. Their strong organizational and efficiency skills, combined with task prioritization, make them a valuable asset in any restaurant environment.
Fine Dining Server Resume Example
Why this fine dining server resume is strong:
This resume showcases expertise in high-end dining environments, with a proven track record of exceeding sales quotas and maintaining guest satisfaction. The candidate’s ability to upsell and provide tailored recommendations reflects their skill in guest relations, while their knowledge of food and wine pairings highlights industry-specific expertise. Overall, the resume balances sales achievements with customer service excellence.
Banquet Server Resume Example
Why this banquet server resume is strong:
This resume is strong due to its focus on leadership and event management in a high-volume setting. The candidate’s ability to train and supervise a team of 20 servers, along with their coordination skills for events serving over 300 guests, demonstrates a high level of responsibility. Additionally, the increase in customer satisfaction highlights their effectiveness in delivering excellent service.
Food Server Resume Example
Why this food server resume is strong:
This resume emphasizes the candidate’s experience in the unique environment of assisted living facilities, where empathy, communication, and food safety are paramount. The focus on relationship building with residents and collaboration with healthcare professionals showcases the candidate’s dedication to providing high-quality care. The 90% satisfaction rating reinforces their success in this role.
Cocktail Server Resume Example
Why this cocktail server resume is strong:
This resume excels due to the candidate’s ability to generate significant sales through upselling techniques and product knowledge. Their experience in fine dining establishments and training other servers further underscores their leadership abilities. The resume highlights both sales performance and guest satisfaction, making it clear that the candidate excels in delivering exceptional service.
Restaurant Server Resume Example
Why this restaurant server resume is strong:
This resume showcases the candidate’s ability to collaborate with various teams to improve restaurant operations, leading to higher guest satisfaction and reduced order errors. Their leadership in training new servers and their success in achieving 120% of monthly sales quotas reflect a well-rounded professional who excels in both guest service and team collaboration.
Catering Server Resume Example
Why this catering server resume is strong:
This resume stands out due to the candidate’s leadership experience in the catering industry. The ability to supervise a large team and ensure successful execution of over 400 events demonstrates strong organizational and leadership skills. The candidate’s track record in customer satisfaction and event management highlights their ability to deliver exceptional service in high-pressure environments.
Bartender Resume Example
Bartender/Server Resume Example
Waiter/Waitress Resume Example
Server Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples
How To Write a Server Resume
1. Summarize your server qualifications in a dynamic profile
While it may seem counter-intuitive, your profile section shouldn’t be all about you or what you’re looking for in a job. Instead, focus on providing the hiring manager with a short summary that shows how hiring you will benefit the restaurant. Use keywords from the job description, such as a point of sale (POS) system you’re familiar with, to grab the reader’s attention quickly and show them you’re a good fit. Limit the use of “I,” “me,” or “my,” and instead, use shorter sentences that start with action verbs for more punch.
Senior-Level Profile Example
Professional server with over 17 years’ experience who has helped over 100,000 hungry diners while providing a positive dining experience for customers. Practices safe food handling techniques while using interpersonal skills to ensure positive customer service for guests.
Entry-Level Profile Example
Server with one year of experience in food service, providing a friendly, upbeat customer experience. Ensured prompt service by maintaining a high level of energy and enthusiasm for customer service. Led the team in the use of new technology when the company’s new POS system was introduced and built team spirit by helping others on the team become comfortable with the new technology.
2. Add a compelling section featuring your server experience
When you’re working on the professional experience section of your resume, use action verbs and specifics to deliver the most impact in a small space. For example, talk about which POS systems you used and how many guests you served on a Friday evening. If you have to include something more generic such as “cashed out checks,” relate it to a customer-service benefit. You could say, “Cashed out customers at the table so they could remain seated and have the best dining experience.” This shows why this skill is important and how it lines up with the restaurant’s goals.
Senior-Level Professional Experience Example
Server
Starlight Cuisine, Dryden, GA | May 2003-July 2013
- Enhanced an upscale dining experience by quickly greeting customers and offering to take an order or check back
- Entered orders into the Xonos POS system to ensure accuracy
- Confirmed correctness of orders and customer satisfaction with food by checking back frequently
- Offered upsell suggestions to customers, including appetizers, beverage upgrades, and dessert ideas
- Cashed out customers at the table so they could remain seated to improve their dining experience
Entry-Level Professional Experience Example
Server
Jenny’s Fine Food, Clayton, GA | January 2019-January 2020
- Enhanced customer experiences by actively listening to customer needs and orders
- Correctly recorded orders on the Xonos POS system
- Led the team by supporting and encouraging others when new technology was introduced by management
- Exhibited a positive, friendly attitude at all times
- Cashed out customers after the meal while ensuring the accuracy of the bills
3. Include education and certifications relevant to server
While some server jobs are entry-level, positions at high-end restaurants may require specific certifications or knowledge. And even if the job posting doesn’t require it, showing you’ve taken the initiative to gain a deeper knowledge of the industry and hone your skills is always a plus.
Most server certifications center around safe food handling, such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification or the Certified Food Manager (CFM) program. If you graduated from a bartending school or took any culinary classes, these are also good things to include. It shows you have a deeper interest in the industry and additional experience to offer guests. Here’s an example of how to highlight your education or certifications on your resume.
Education
Template
- [Degree Name]
- [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] – [Graduation Month and Year]
Example
- Food Service Certificate and High School Diploma
- Pioneer JVS, Shelby, OH – June 2012
Certifications
Template
- [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
Example
- ServSafe Food Handler, National Restaurant Association, 2020
4. List server-related skills and proficiencies
A major part of making your resume offer-worthy is including your relevant professional skills, and restaurant hiring managers are usually looking for specific proficiencies. Don’t assume everyone knows what a server does or use blanket statements like “served customers.” Your resume is just as much an opportunity to show off your industry knowledge as it is a place to list your job duties. Here are some common skills managers look for when hiring a server that you may want to add to your resume.
| Key Skills and Proficiencies | |
|---|---|
| Ability to multitask | Active listening |
| Adaptability | Attention to detail |
| Cash handling | Compliance with health and safety regulations |
| Conflict resolution | Customer service |
| Dependability | Flexibility |
| Menu knowledge | Positive attitude |
| POS system proficiency | Professionalism |
| Salesmanship | Solution-finding |
| Stress management | Table maintenance |
| Teamwork | Time management |
How To Pick the Best Server Resume Template
When you’re looking at resume templates, narrow your choices down to simple, clean designs. Look for options that let you provide a strong work history with specific data points, such as how many tables your section included and how many guests you served in an average shift. It’s also a good idea to have a section that lets you list professional skills and certifications, so a hiring manager can quickly scan your resume to see if you meet the hiring criteria.
Chris Shatto - Hospitality Recruiter and Expert Contributor, Linkedin
Meet our Expert: Shatto, a respected hospitality leader with over 20 years of experience in upscale and luxury hotels and clubs, is the owner of Gecko Hospitality, a renowned recruiting firm.
1. What are the most in-demand skills for servers that should be featured on a candidate’s resume? -
Hard Skills:
- Knowledge of POS systems: Familiarity with common restaurant software and hardware is crucial
- Food safety knowledge: Understanding of food handling and sanitation guidelines
- Menu knowledge: Ability to explain menu items, make recommendations, and answer customer queries
Soft Skills:
- Communication: Articulate, clear, and patient communication with guests and team members
- Multitasking: Managing multiple tasks at once, keeping cool under pressure
- Conflict resolution: Handling customer complaints and issues calmly and effectively
Additional Qualities:
- Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with kitchen and front-of-house staff
- Professionalism: Maintaining a positive attitude, even in stressful situations
- Certifications/awards: Any relevant recognitions, such as ServSafe certification or 'Employee of the Month' awards
2. What work experience and other accomplishments are hiring managers looking for in a server?-
- Menu familiarity: Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the restaurant's menu, including the ability to make recommendations and answer questions about ingredients, preparation methods, and dish pairings.
- Food and drink handling: Experience with handling food and drinks is crucial. This includes knowledge of different types of cuisine, beverages, and the appropriate serving etiquette.
- Customer handling: You need experience dealing with a variety of customers. This includes handling complaints, providing excellent service, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
- Prior serving experience: This is often the first thing hiring managers look for, whether it's in a fast food joint, a casual dining establishment, or a high-end restaurant. Your ability to handle customers, take orders, serve food, and clear tables efficiently and professionally can significantly boost your chances.
- POS system experience: Expertise with POS systems is often required.
- Knowledge of safety and health guidelines: Understanding and adhering to health and safety guidelines, such as food handling procedures and cleanliness standards, is essential in this role.
- Communication and teamwork skills: These are key in a busy restaurant environment. You must communicate effectively with customers, kitchen staff, and other servers to ensure smooth operations.
- Adaptability: Restaurants are fast-paced environments. Your ability to quickly adapt to changing circumstances, such as sudden rushes or unexpected issues, will be highly valued.
- Extended hours capability: The ability to work long hours, often on your feet, is a common requirement in the restaurant industry.
- Personal attributes: Hiring managers also value personal qualities like attentiveness, patience, and a positive attitude. These traits can greatly enhance the customers’ dining experience.
3. What else in addition to a resume should a server candidate be prepared to provide hiring managers?-
- Cover letter: A well-crafted cover letter allows us to gauge a candidate's communication skills and understand their motivation for applying to our restaurant. It also shows their knowledge about our establishment, demonstrating their commitment and interest.
- Sample menu: Candidates who provide a sample menu with suggested drinks and dishes demonstrate creativity and an understanding of our cuisine and branding. This could be especially beneficial for restaurants that frequently change menus or have a unique culinary focus.
- Recommendations: Letters of recommendation from previous employers give us insights into their work ethic, reliability, and team spirit. This is crucial in the fast-paced hospitality industry where teamwork is key.
- Certifications: Relevant certifications, such as food safety or alcohol service training, underscore a candidate's dedication to professional development and adherence to industry standards.
- Additional job experiences: Experiences outside of server roles, perhaps in customer service, event planning, or even theater (for performance and presentation skills), can bring additional value to their role within our restaurant.
- Availability schedule: A candidate's schedule gives us an idea of their flexibility. In the restaurant industry, the ability to work during peak hours, weekends, and holidays is often a necessity.
- Personal testimonials: Previous customers’ testimonials can provide a firsthand account of the candidate's customer service skills, attentiveness, and ability to create a positive dining experience.
4. What advice would you give a server candidate about their job search? -
- Optimize your LinkedIn profile: Recruiters often use LinkedIn to find potential candidates. Make sure your profile is up-to-date, includes a professional photo, and showcases your skills and experience. Consider asking colleagues or previous employers for recommendations to boost your profile's credibility.
- Network: Reach out to contacts within the hospitality industry. Attend industry events, and join online forums or groups related to your profession. Networking can often open doors to opportunities that aren't advertised.
- Research potential employers: Before applying, research each restaurant to understand their style, values, and customer base. This information will help you tailor your applications and prepare for interviews.
- Apply to relevant job opportunities: Use job search engines, industry-specific job boards, and company websites to find suitable opportunities. Don't limit yourself to advertised positions; consider sending speculative applications to restaurants you're interested in.
- Prepare for interviews: Anticipate common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses. Practice makes perfect. Also, think about questions you can ask the interviewer to show your interest in the role.
- Follow-up: After an interview, send a thank you note expressing your continued interest in the role. If you haven't heard back within the expected timeframe, it's acceptable to follow up with a polite inquiry.
Frequently Asked Questions: Server Resume Examples and Advice
What are common action verbs for server resumes?-
It’s important to make every word count. Using action verbs helps you show your experience and skills in an impactful way and can help your resume make it past Applicant Tracking Software (ATS). If you’re running out of action verbs to describe your previous job duties and qualifications, check out this list for some fresh ideas:
| Action Verbs | |
|---|---|
| Accommodate | Clear |
| Collaborate | Communicate |
| Coordinate | Deliver |
| Explain | Greet |
| Interact | Manage |
| Monitor | Organize |
| Present | Recommend |
| Reset | Resolve |
| Respond | Seat |
| Suggest | Upsell |
How do you align your resume with a job description?-
It may seem like serving jobs are mostly the same, but it’s still important to specifically tailor your resume to any job you’re applying for. Each restaurant has a different target clientele and atmosphere, and this can change what language is the best to use. A job posting for a server is also likely to get a high number of applications because it’s usually an entry-level position more accessible to new job seekers. If the hiring manager is using ATS, having relevant keywords and phrases from the job posting in your resume may increase the chances of your resume getting in front of human eyes. However, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics is predicting faster-than-average job growth for servers, and more open roles than job seekers could make it easier to get hired.
What is the best server resume format?-
The best server resume format depends on your skills and previous restaurant experience. If you’ve held multiple server positions — or similar jobs such as a hostess or bartender — a reverse chronological resume may be the best choice. Start with your most recent position and work backward. Keep in mind that you don’t need to have an exhaustive list. If you’ve been in the industry for several years and held as many positions, you can only include the last five years of job history or focus on the jobs that were the most similar to the one you’re applying for.
How long should I make my server resume?-
A one-page server resume is the best option for most candidates, as it ensures clarity and brevity. If you have significant achievements or over 10 years of experience, extending to two pages is fine—but only if the content is tailored and directly supports your application. Focus on impactful accomplishments and key skills that relate to the job.
Include your most recent 10 to 15 years of work experience. Older roles should only appear if they provide unique insights or align closely with the job requirements. Keeping your resume concise and relevant will maximize its impact.
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Don’t forget to add a cover letter to your resume. In the restaurant industry, these are usually short and sweet. Focus on how you can help the team achieve its goals, and use this server cover letter example to guide your own letter.
